A multi-band radio receiver IC from Silicon Labs promises to modernise wheel-tuned radios with digital displays. Based on a patented low-IF digital architecture, the Si484x receivers reduce radio component count by more than 70% through CMOS integration to reduce PCB area requirements in tabletop and portable radios, stereos, mini/micro systems, boom boxes, clock radios, docking stations, radio toys or any consumer electronics product containing a digital-display radio tuned by a mechanical wheel. Competitive solutions use frequency counter ICs to approximate the tuned frequency of traditional analogue ICs. However, the actual tuned frequency could be significantly different from the displayed frequency. The receivers' automatically tuned RF front-end circuitry adjusts to reject noise and amplify the target signal for exceptional sensitivity in weak signal conditions. In crowded broadcast environments, the RF front-end automatically attenuates undesired blockers and receives the audio signals on the desired channel. The receivers provide advanced audio conditioning for all signal environments, removing pops, clicks and loud static. The multi-band receivers are available in a compact 24-pin SSOP, enabling single-sided PCB designs.
